How to get from Istanbul Airport
to Istanbul city centre and other cities of Turkey

Istanbul is a very unusual city. It was once the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman empires. Istanbul was known as Byzantium and Constantinople. And now it is a city combining an oriental fairytale with the crazy rhythm of the modern world that attracts travellers from all over the world. And it is no surprise because this city has a large number of various sights: Byzantine churches, magnificent mosques, sultans’ palaces and many other interesting things can be found in wonderful Istanbul! But what to do in case you have already packed your suitcases and bought plane tickets, but haven’t thought about how you will start your trip in Istanbul? We are here to help you! Detailed airguides on Istanbul and Turkey (for instance, guides to cities of Antalya, Alanya, Marmaris, and Burgas) will tell you which form of transport on this route will be the best for you. Are you an active traveller or a comfort lover? What is more important for you – a fast trip or a leisurely stroll along the route? We will find what you like most and help you compare it with other options to get from and to Istanbul.

Istanbul transport

There are still lots of disputes on the Internet over whether Istanbul transport is of high level or not. On one hand, people thinking that Istanbul public transport is not comfortable, often not air-conditioned and too overcrowded are right. But on the other hand, don’t forget about commercial shuttles and metro: they are always well-ventilated and don’t have large crowds of people. As for shuttles, tickets for them are sold strictly with a reserved seat number, so you don’t risk getting into a crowd. The highest comfort level can be found in taxis and transfers, especially in high-class ones. When taking a taxi, you can get an old vehicle, and taxi drivers not always obey the speed limit. But if you book a transfer, you will get a new spacious car equipped with air-conditioning, and a polite driver will meet you at the airport with a name sign and help you with your luggage.

There is no low season in Istanbul, so the city is full of tourists all year round. It is very hot there in summer, but this doesn’t stop travellers who come there not for the sea, but for its culture. And this is great because this allows not to change Istanbul transport timetable according to the season, so you will always find the necessary transport there!

How to get from Istanbul Airport to Istanbul city centre and other cities of Turkey

To get from one of Istanbul airports (Ataturk Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport) to Istanbul city centre or one of neighbouring resorts, you should plan your trip in advance. There are at least two forms of transport serving each route which will take you to your hotel or private address, however each tourist should choose the perfect one for them. We don’t recommend mothers with children to use public transport, as long waiting at the stop in the heat can harm children’s health, as well as a long trip in hot and crowded transport. On the contrary, tourists travelling alone and young couples travelling light should take buses, funiculars, or metro. You will get to know Istanbul better and immerse yourself in its culture, and besides, save money for entertainment (there are the best night clubs in Taksim!). For aged tourists and those who are in a hurry, it is better to book a transfer to get to the destination fast and with maximum comfort. Those who are travelling with heavy luggage should buy shuttle tickets in advance or take a taxi on the spot.

No matter which route you choose, we wish you a safe and pleasant journey in Istanbul. Don’t be afraid of travelling and discovering something new!